But the Mirror's report claims Manchester City, Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Barcelona are all interested in de Ligt, with all four clubs likely to offer the Holland international a bigger wage than Spurs can afford.

De Ligt said: "I am going to make a decision with my head, not based on money offers. I think some players would be tempted when they get massive offers. But compared to ordinary people I think I earn a huge wage right now, anyway."

So Spurs may struggle to convince de Ligt to overlook their rivals in the race to land the defender, but his recent comments will come as a huge boost to Tottenham's chances of landing the defender. Fans have reacted in mixed fashion.

Some are desperate for chairman Levy to complete a deal sooner rather than later, while others believe he is off to Manchester City despite his comments. One fan described him as "Poch's replacement for Toby [Alderweireld]".

Will Butcher

Sports journalist who graduated in 2016 from Staffordshire University, and has since worked for Football Insider. Obsessed with anything football related. Still dreaming of a Premier League return for Leeds United.